Also known as fluid retention, is common in the arms hands and legs and feet, and can also be noticeable in the face. It can be quite debilitating and uncomfortable during pregnancy, and especially on hot days eliciting a feeling of tightness or a feeling like they are ‘going to explode’. Luckily, this usually rectifies itself as soon as the baby is born, however, until that day arrives, integrating lymphatic strokes and pumps into the massage that encourage the lymph flow to the direction of the major lymph nodes can really assist in getting this flowing and reduce the fluid build up.
The reason for cramps is up for debate and different for each person; can be neurological, magnesium related, trigger points from activity changes, or electrolyte imbalances. Anecdotally we find quite an increase in the summer and may coincide with swelling, and women report getting woken up with cramps right in the middle of the night- not fun. Getting good blood and lymphatic flow and aiding in circulation has wonderful effects on leg cramps and clients report having less after their massages.
Nb: Myofascial and lymphatic strokes of the arms and legs are great for pregnancy massage but we avoid deep tissue in case of any undiagnosed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) issues.
Remedial therapists in Australia can not diagnose conditions however with hands on treatment of the structures around the area, we can rule out other things, and often the possibility of the condition itself. Self diagnosed Sciatica can often not be true sciatica, so wonderful results can be had with targeted work and much comfort can be gained if it is diagnosed sciatica too by releasing systemic tension and holding patterns throughout the chain. And If we don’t get the results we should be getting, we can refer you onto one of our brilliant allied health partners to give you the extra tweak you need.
One of the most common complaints during pregnancy are tight gluts, tight and sore hips and lateral leg pain and its quite common to experience this in the evening and can really disrupt sleep. With all that added weight, a widening pelvis and the change in the angle from the hip bone to knee as your hips have become wider, as well as always sleeping on your side, no wonder they are sore. Soft tissue work around the joints and myofascial release greatly reduce tension and stiffness and encourage that blood flow so muscles return to homeostasis when you are inactive. After remedial Work on this area, women report being much more comfortable in their sleep.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common entrapment neuropathy related to compression of the median nerve, which results in pain, numbness, and tingling, and 50% of cases are found bilaterally (on both sides). Treatment options are based on severity and include lifestyle modifications, including decreasing repetitive activity, using ergonomic devices, wrist splints, and massage, are considered first-line therapies, Most conservative treatments provide short-term symptom relief, and many clients have found great relief with regular maintenance and the gentle realignment and opening up of the complex the medial nerve runs, through myofascial release.
This is also very common. As your Belly protrudes and your breast weigh heavy, your whole center of gravity adapts, often bringing you forward, hinging at this point to counteract the imbalance.
This is also a common complaint, and not surprising with the changes that occur in the entire trunk to accommodate the baby. Releasing the back and intercostal fascia can give good results on this discomfort around the rib cage.
It can occur because of stress, computer work/ occupational, incorrect exercise, holding children and more. Or it could be a combination of things. Massage of the head and neck is hands down is among the most popular areas of massage for all populations and gets fantastic results.
These are very common during pregnancy and especially early on due to hormonal changes. A whole body massage, releasing of the head and neck and scalp can help and don’t forget to keep hydrated and listen to your body if it needs to rest.
